Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cucumber sushi rolls are not only delicious but also incredibly refreshing. The crunchy cucumber provides a satisfying texture that pairs beautifully with the sticky sushi rice. The addition of nori gives each roll an umami flavor that complements the fresh, clean taste of the cucumber. Plus, they are easy to make at home, requiring just a few simple ingredients. If you enjoy sushi but are looking for a lighter, vegetarian option, these cucumber rolls are perfect!

Ingredients

1 cucumber (Japanese cucumber or English cucumber works best)
1 cup sushi rice (short-grain rice)
1 1/2 cups water (for cooking the rice)
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
4 sheets nori (seaweed)
Soy sauce (for dipping)
Pickled ginger (optional, for serving)
Wasabi (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the sushi rice:

Rinse the sushi rice in cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and ensures the rice is sticky.
Cook the rice according to the package instructions, or use a rice cooker. The general ratio is 1 cup rice to 1 1/2 cups water.
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, combine the rice vinegar, sugar, and salt, stirring until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the warm rice, making sure it’s evenly coated. Let the rice cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the cucumber:

Peel the cucumber (optional, but helps with texture) and cut it into thin matchstick-sized strips. You want them to be thin enough to fit comfortably inside the roll but not too small that they lose their crunch.

3. Assemble the sushi rolls:

Place a bamboo sushi mat on a flat surface, and put a sheet of nori (shiny side down) on the mat.
Wet your fingers with a little water to prevent the rice from sticking to them, and then spread a thin, even layer of sushi rice over the nori, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top of the nori sheet.
Lay a few cucumber strips along the center of the rice.

4. Roll the sushi:

Carefully lift the edge of the bamboo mat closest to you and start rolling the sushi tightly away from you, keeping the roll firm but not too tight.
When you reach the exposed 1-inch strip of nori, wet it slightly with a little water to help seal the roll.
Use the bamboo mat to gently press the roll into shape.

5. Slice the rolls:

With a sharp knife, slice the sushi roll into 6-8 pieces, cleaning the knife between cuts to make clean slices.

6. Serve:

Serve your cucumber sushi rolls with soy sauce, pickled ginger, and wasabi on the side. Enjoy your fresh, homemade sushi!

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes about 4 rolls (or 24 pieces, depending on how thick you slice them)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes (for the rice)
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add avocado: For a creamy element, add slices of ripe avocado to the rolls along with the cucumber.
Add other vegetables: You can also include other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or sprouts for extra flavor and texture.
Spicy cucumber rolls: Add a drizzle of spicy mayo (made with mayonnaise and Sriracha) or sprinkle chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Use other fillings: If you’re not vegetarian, you can add cooked shrimp, crab, or even smoked salmon for more variety.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Sushi is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the rice will lose its texture and may dry out slightly.
Reheating: Sushi is not typically reheated, as it’s meant to be eaten fresh. However, you can enjoy leftover sushi rolls cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice for sushi?

For the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to use short-grain sushi rice, which is sticky and helps hold the sushi together.

2. Do I have to use a sushi mat?

A sushi mat helps to roll the sushi tightly and evenly, but if you don’t have one, you can use parchment paper or roll the sushi by hand. Just make sure to roll tightly but not too tight.

3. Can I make cucumber sushi ahead of time?

While sushi is best served fresh, you can prepare the rice and cucumber in advance. Assemble and roll the sushi just before serving to maintain its freshness.

4. Can I make the rice without vinegar?

The vinegar in the rice adds flavor and helps the rice stick together. If you prefer a different flavor, you could experiment with rice seasoning or a small amount of lemon juice, but it may alter the traditional taste.

5. Can I use a different filling in my cucumber sushi?

Yes! You can substitute the cucumber with other vegetables like carrots, avocado, or even a cooked protein like shrimp, chicken, or tofu for different variations.

6. Can I use frozen cucumber for sushi?

Fresh cucumber is best for texture and flavor, but if you need to use frozen cucumber, make sure to thaw it thoroughly and drain any excess water before using it in sushi rolls.

7. Can I add some crunch to my cucumber sushi?

For a bit of texture, you can sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, tempura flakes, or even a few pieces of fried onions on top of the sushi rolls before serving.

8. How do I keep the sushi rice from sticking to my hands?

Wet your fingers with a little water while handling the rice to prevent it from sticking. You can also lightly wet the edge of the nori sheet when rolling to ensure the roll stays sealed.

9. How can I make sushi without fish?

This cucumber sushi is a great option for those who want to enjoy sushi without fish. You can also try other vegetable-based fillings like avocado, pickled radish, or sweet potato for a sushi roll without seafood.

10. Can I use store-bought nori?

Yes, store-bought nori sheets are perfect for making sushi at home. Just ensure they are high-quality for the best taste.

Conclusion

Cucumber sushi rolls are a fresh, healthy, and easy-to-make sushi option that’s perfect for vegetarians and sushi enthusiasts alike. With their refreshing flavor and simple ingredients, these rolls are a great introduction to homemade sushi. Whether you’re making them for a light lunch, a fun dinner, or a gathering, cucumber sushi rolls are sure to be a hit! Enjoy your flavorful and fresh rolls today.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

1. Prepare the sushi rice:

2. Prepare the cucumber:

3. Assemble the sushi rolls:

4. Roll the sushi:

5. Slice the rolls:

6. Serve:

Servings and Timing

Variations

Storage/Reheating

FAQs

1. Can I use regular rice for sushi?

2. Do I have to use a sushi mat?

3. Can I make cucumber sushi ahead of time?

4. Can I make the rice without vinegar?

5. Can I use a different filling in my cucumber sushi?

6. Can I use frozen cucumber for sushi?

7. Can I add some crunch to my cucumber sushi?

8. How do I keep the sushi rice from sticking to my hands?

9. How can I make sushi without fish?

10. Can I use store-bought nori?

Conclusion

Cucumber Sushi Rolls Recipe

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition